More: Upper elevations (above 4,000 feet) along the Clingman’s Dome road develop color in early October; lower elevations, along Newfound Gap Road (aka US 441), usually peak in early November and have a greater variety of trees and colors. For a less-crowded look at the leaves (traffic along the road can be hectic in October), try nearby Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and Blue Ridge Parkway.

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